After installing the game and entering my CD key, the verification process causes my computer to lock up for like 10 minutes, then it displays this error:

"The disk key you've entered does not correspond to the disk in the drive. Make sure you use the correct Disk Key."

I've found some old threads through Google and this is apparently an error caused by those who pirated the game. I did NOT pirate the game. I bought a retail DVD copy at Fred Meyers several years ago. I've installed the game multiple times on my PC in the past with no issues whatsoever, using the SAME dvd and cd key.

I've tried both keys that come with the game, just to get that out of the way.

Maybe worth a try:Go to HKLM\SOFTWARE\Ubisoft\Splinter Cell Chaos Theory\Keys, and delete all 'HardwareProfile' keys.Enter the 25-digit key that's on the DVD - not the one on the manual.End all dispensable processes/programs that may interfere with the disc check.

Have you already applied patch 1.05 ? I also had problems starting v1.0.Which OS do you have ?